Ditch ice skates for some roller skates. Or just check out some the incredible skill on display at Detroit’s oldest roller rink. 

The Redford Theatre and its classic marquee have been in operation since opening in January 1928. It’s a great place to watch some class films, a stage performance, or listen to the unique sounds of the theater’s Barton organ.

Down the street, you can see the Artist Village, a creative hub for artists, students, business owners, and neighbors living and working in the heart of Old Redford. 

Step back in time to one of Detroit’s classic movie theaters, which owns an incredible sounding Wurlitzer organ. This winter the Senate will be showing Miracle on 34th Street, silent short films, and a David Bowie documentary as part of its annual “Stardust at the Senate” event.

In Southwest Detroit, you can find some absolutely fantastic Mexican food (as well as offerings from El Salvador, Honduras, and other Latin American countries) at the neighborhood’s sit-down restaurants, bakeries, and taco trucks. Also spend some time in Clark Park, one of the city’s best maintained and most pleasant parks.

The Motown Museum is about to undergo a $50 million expansion, but you can still stop by to learn more about the music, the artists, and how it all started—where it all started.

Detroit's Largest Art Object continues to impress as Detroit's most iconic skyscraper. Built in 1928 by the Fisher Brothers as a gift to the city and designed by Albert Kahn, this stands out as Kahn's masterpiece. The mosaics and frescoes were designed by Geza R. Maroti and represent transportation, commerce, music, and drama.

The gold top can be seen in the night sky as a beacon in New Center. Home to the Fisher Theatre, you can wander through the lobby anytime. Pure Detroit offers guided tours on the weekends.

The main branch of the Detroit Public Library features some of the most beautiful interiors in the city. It’s the perfect place to curl up with a book or search through various archives to learn more about Detroit history.

You can also typically an exhibit on display. Through March 2, check out painted portraits of public icons like Stevie Wonder by artist Desiree Kelly.

At all times of year, the DIA is one of the best places in the city to visit. From the Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera to the Kresge Court to the expanded Asian Galleries, there’s so much to take in.

Co-founded by Detroit’s own Keegan-Michael Key, Plant Ant has been showcasing great comedy (both improv and scripted) for over 25 years. It recently expanded its offerings by renovating the Ant Hall and Ghost Light bar across the street. The theater also offers improv classes year round.

The largest Masonic Temple in the world hosts concerts, events, and tours throughout the year. There’s countless hidden gems and oddities inside this iconic structure that justify multiple visits.

Located in an old glove factory, John K. King Used & Rare Books is one of the largest (and coolest, in our opinion) used book stores in the world. Explore the four floors of books, and check out the rare book room behind the building.

While maybe not the most useful transit option ever created, for 75 cents you can access some of the most unique views of downtown and the river in a heated car. There’s also some under-appreciated art at the stations.

Campus Martius Park has been around in some shape or form since it was a military training ground in 1788. Located in the heart of downtown, the park has a different activity set up all year round. The park is known as the Point of Origin for Detroit, as all major avenues radiate from there. Now visitors can easily walk from the park to the Riverfront from the esplanade along Woodward and the Spirit of Detroit plaza.

An Art Deco masterpiece, this landmark downtown skyscraper has one of the most unique interiors in the world. Nicknamed the Cathedral of Finance, the building was designed by Wirt Rowland and opened in 1929. Pure Detroit (which has a shop on the first floor) holds tours of the building.

The historic public market district is open year round. Pick up some fresh food, wander the district checking out the murals, and pop into the local businesses in one of the most vibrant districts in Detroit.

The annual October Beer Festival featuring the best beers from around the state takes place in Eastern Market on October 25 and 26.

The Detroit Riverfront, from Mt. Elliott Park to the Joe Louis Arena, is one of the best public spaces in the city and always a great option to get some fresh air, no matter the season.

One of Michigan’s oldest cemeteries is the perfect place to take a winter stroll. There’s 86 acres to explore in a surprisingly peaceful setting, and tours can be easily arranged.

With the season over for Detroit City FC and the neighborhood league, where’s someone supposed to get their soccer fix? The Detroit City Fieldhouse. With indoor leagues for both youth and adults, drop-in soccer games, and a clubhouse bar that’s always broadcasting the best matches from around the globe, there’s no better place for soccer during the colder months.

Another fun museum with free admission. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum includes the bow anchor from the Edmund Fitzgerald, a “Pilot House” overlooking the Detroit River, and the grand interior of the smoking lounge from the SS City of Detroit III. It recently announced a nearly $5 million renovation but will be open during construction.

A classic Belgian bar on Detroit’s east side, the Cadieux Cafe has hosted feather bowling since the early 1900s and claims to have the only authentic lanes in the United States. It also offers steamed mussels, live music, and a great atmosphere.